Q: How long does a baby experience teething pain before a tooth comes in? What can I do to comfort my infant?

A: Babies actually begin the teething process shortly after birth. The primary or baby teeth were formed during your pregnancy. When the actual teeth erupt depends on the baby. Heredity plays a major role. On average, most infants experience the breaking through of their first tooth between 5 and 7 months. Babies have periods of discomfort as their primary teeth gradually move toward the gums' margins. Massaging their gums will help soothe the pain. You can use your (clean) finger, a clean cloth, refrigerator-chilled rubber teething rings, a pacifier, or even your breast nipple. (Don't worry, they do not get confused about the nipple's primary function for them.)

If your baby is able to sit without support, teething biscuits are a treat and bring forward more smiles than tears when their gums itch or hurt. However, just prior to a tooth actually erupting through the gum, your baby's discomfort may be more intense. If gum massage does not do the trick, one of the over-the-counter teething gels which contain topical (surface) anesthetics may offer temporary relief. Non-aspirin pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are also very effective. Do not consider any concoction containing alcohol. If your baby's fussiness and irritability seem prolonged, always check with your pediatrician -- the culprit could be more than teething.